The Best Time to Start Learning a Musical Instrument

Apr 29
14:21

2007

Tony Williams

Tony Williams

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The best time to start learning a musical instrument is when you have an overwhelming desire to do so. It matters not Whether you have tried before and failed; whether you are young or old; what season it is; or where in the world you might happen to be.

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There is only one pre-requisite: A love of music.

There is no denying that learning to play a musical instrument takes a lot of hard work. The mantra is "practice,The Best Time to Start Learning a Musical Instrument Articles practice, practice!" and there are no shortcuts, regardless of what some of the 'miracle teaching methods' might have us believe in their advertising. But with time the hard work and practice become pleasurable as we discover the joy of commanding an instrument to make those first musical sounds. Gradually, as more and more competence with an instrument is developed a  fulfillment and enjoyment like no other is experienced - great rewards indeed for the time and effort expended!

Some would argue that the best time to learn is when one is young; after all a child learns more quickly. That might be true, but nothing is more certain than that forcing a child to do anything, including learning a musical instrument, is a futile venture that can build a great resentment in future years. Furthermore, a child could view the enforced sessions as a  punishment and lose enjoyment of music as a result - not the wanted outcome at all.

Others may claim to be past the time of learning and quote old cliches such as; "you can't teach an old dog new tricks". This is of course nonsense - learning in whatever form, whether it is academic or for pleasure, is a lifetime pursuit and age has nothing whatsoever to do with it.

So the best time to learn is neither in the spring, summer, autumn or winter of a person's life; but when there is a curiosity and a willingness to experiment with the sounds a musical instrument can make. But above all; when a person is absolutely determined and willing and can enjoy working hard for the thrill of being able to play.

In short; you can become a musician at any time if you truly believe you can.